The IT sector today is a complete mess. The end-users rarely understand this, but most insiders reach a point when they realize that things should be different. The problems are numerous but they all reduce to a basic principle. IT and consumer electronics companies are interested more about money than helping people solve their problems. Of course companies need to make a profit and nobody denies that. They should however make money by helping people and not by creating more problems for them.

First of all, this conversation is not passe, second of all, you're missing the point.

The point being:
Microsoft (and computer manufacturers) have been selling a complex operating system *as though* it were a washing machine. End users are told their computers are easy to use, and they simply are not. At least cars come with a manual of sorts that explains basic upkeep. What manufacturer adequately informs their users that IE is the chief cause of spyware installation and virus propogation on their computer? And supplies an alternative?

Yes, computers are complex and wonderful things, but until either a) users are taught what they are *actually* in for as opposed to what they are told they will be able to do (generally more complex than the manufacturer lets on) or b) the manufacturer actually creates an os that is as simple as an appliance, this debate will continue.

Bottom line: Computer manufacturers lie about their products. Period. You can be an elitist snob if you want, but your grandmother was not told she was getting a complex device, she was told she was getting a tool she could "do the email and look at pictures" with.